Have you ever wondered what the difference is between art therapy and an art class? Art therapy and an art class both involve art making, but the two have very different goals and purposes. Read below for more information.

Art Therapy

Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that utilizes the creative process of art-making to enhance emotional well-being, personal growth, and psychological healing. Art Therapy sessions are facilitated by trained masters-level art therapists who combine psychotherapy techniques with art interventions. Overall, art therapy is a technique rooted in the idea that creative expression can foster healing and mental well-being. It can be used to treat a wide range of mental disorders and psychological distress.

Art Classes

On the other hand, an art class primarily focuses on developing artistic skills, techniques, and knowledge in various art forms. It is intended to provide instruction, guidance, and opportunities for individuals to explore their creativity, learn artistic techniques, and develop artistic abilities. Art classes are conducted by an Art Teacher, not an Art Therapist.

Art Class Setting vs Clinical Setting

Art therapy is typically conducted in a clinical or therapeutic setting, like a mental health clinic, hospital, or counseling center. In these settings, art therapists are trained to understand the roles that color, symbols, gestures, texture, and various art materials can play in the therapeutic process. Furthermore, art therapists are trained in understanding the psychoanalytic themes involved in the art-making process as a whole and the complex components that can help reveal one’s thoughts and feelings. It’s often used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan in conjunction with other therapeutic models whereas art classes often take place in an academic group setting.

You can take art classes in art studios, schools, or community centers. In this kind of setting, participants engage in the creative process alongside others, often tasked with the same art prompt or goal. Although an art class can also support group interactions and shared artistic experiences, the focus is often on the completed image or art product rather than the art process. In an art class, the final art product is then critiqued and assessed by peers along with the art instructor before receiving a grade. In an art class, due to there being more emphasis on an individual’s technique and skill in comparison to others, this can create stress, and competitiveness.

Focus on process, not product

Art therapy sessions are clinical therapy sessions tailored to the specific needs, goals, and preferences of each individual client. Art materials and techniques are chosen based on the client's therapeutic needs and artistic abilities. Individuals are then encouraged to explore their art-making process freely without fear of judgment or critique. This person-centered approach can allow space for safe exploration of various internal themes without added pressures.

While self-expression can also occur in an art class, the primary objective of art class is the development of artistic skills and knowledge, rather than exploring personal emotions or psychological healing. Ultimately, an art class is focused on teaching technique or creating a specific finished product while art therapy is more about letting clients focus on their inner experience rather than making something that is an expression of the outer world.

Want to explore Art therapy?

In summary, art therapy focuses on the therapeutic benefits of art-making and is guided by a trained pscyhotherapist to address emotional and psychological needs. Art classes, on the other hand, primarily aim to teach artistic skills and techniques in a group setting, with less emphasis on personal therapy or emotional exploration. If you’re interested in learning more about how art therapy can help treat depression, anxiety, and more you can visit Davenport Creative Arts Therapy. Davenport Creative Arts Therapy is a collective of Art Therapists who blend Art Therapy with traditional psychotherapy. It’s our mission to help children, teens, and adults reconnect to a sense of confidence, connection and joy.